President James Michel visited several areas of the Roche Caiman district this morning, as part of his ongoing programme  to remain connected to the people, and address regional issues which affect each community.

The President was accompanied by the Minister for Community Development, Social Affairs and Sports, Mr. Vincent Meriton, Member of the National Assembly for Roche Caiman, Honourable Jeovana Charles, the District Administrator for Roche Caiman, Mr. Wilbert Omath, the Principal Secretary for Presidential Affairs, Mrs. Lise Bastienne and the Principal Secretary for Community Development and Sports Mr. Denis Rose.

The President met with the district’s representatives  to discuss Roche Caiman’s current challenges as well as the plans to improve services provided by the government in the district. They also discussed the projects being implemented as part of the Social Renaissance plan to address social ills in area.

The delegation also visited several homes of the Roche Caiman housing estate, as well the bird sanctuary which is found on its border, and a road where the government will be undertaking renovation and repainting work.

President Michel and his delegation concluded their visit at the home of Mrs. Martha Songoire, the mother of Marc Songoire, who is currently being held hostage by a pirate group in Somalia together with Rolly Tambara since 2nd November 2011. The President listened to Mrs Songoire’s  concerns about the wellbeing of the two fishermen.  He assured her that the government is doing its maximum to ensure their safety, good health as well as their release.

The President said that the visit to Roche Caiman was important for him to hear about the way that social issues have impacted the district, and to chart a way forward for better coordination and assistance from various government departments.